A Teesside Labour MP today defended the decision to recall Parliament to pay tribute to the Queen Mother.

A Teesside Labour MP today defended the decision to recall Parliament to pay tribute to the Queen Mother.

Stuart Bell MP, who represents the Church Commissioners, said it was right for Parliament to be recalled yesterday as it reflected "the mood of the country".

"I thought there was deference shown to the Queen Mother, there was solemnity to the occasion, but there was also a light-hearted side with anecdotes," the Middlesbrough MP told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

"Parliament did the occasion properly, it was not disproportionate, it was in keeping with the mood of the country and it was also a celebration of her life as well as a condolence to the Royal Family."

The Government has come under fire for recalling MPs and peers, with critics attacking yesterday's emergency session as "over the top".

But Mr Bell said: "Our constitution is the Queen and Parliament and it was proper Parliament got together to send a petition of rejoice of the life of the Queen Mother and condolences to (the Royal Family).

"Millions upon millions of people wanted their MPs to meet as they themselves are going to town halls, up and down the land, to sign books of condolence.

"They wanted their MPs in the House of Commons registering their rejoicing and regret at the same time on their behalf and that's exactly what we did."